This chapter describes the current policy environment as it impacts on the education of newly arrived refugee children in England. It begins by reflecting that there is in fact little in the way of a coherent policy for this group, and then describes some of the key pieces of legislation which affect them, along with the funding arrangements for education. The chapter then goes on to look at how policy impacts on some of the key factors which can aid or impede a young refugee’s educational journey. These include factors within the education system such as the quality of linguistic support, admissions systems and the availability of good advice and guidance; and also external factors such as age assessments, mental health support, Home Office procedures, issues with accommodation and the need to support other family members. This chapter also reviews what we know about the numbers of young refugees within the secondary education system.

DOI: 10.4324/9780429263811-13

ISBN: 9780429263811